By Chidi Ugwu
The National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) has issued a stern warning to Anambra State residents against the unauthorized submission of their National Identification Number (NIN) in exchange for monetary compensation.
The warning was contained in a statement signed by Dr. Kayode Adegoke, Head of the Corporate Communications Unit at NIMC, a copy of which was obtained by Timesreporters Online on Wednesday.
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According to Dr. Adegoke, the commission has been alerted to the activities of unauthorized individuals or organizations requesting the submission of NINs, a practice that contravenes the NIMC Act No. 23 of 2007, the Data Protection Act, and the Cyber Crime Act.
In response to these activities, NIMC, in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), has swiftly arrested the suspects involved in the illegal collection of NINs. These individuals are currently undergoing interrogation and will face legal consequences.
“Upon receiving the information on the activities of the unscrupulous individuals, NIMC, in conjunction with the Department of State Services, DSS, and the Nigeria Police Force, NPF, swiftly arrested the culprits behind the illegal collection of the NIN.
“They are currently being interrogated and would be made to face the full wrath of the law” reads part of the statement.
The commission advised Anambra State residents and all Nigerians to refrain from sharing their NINs with unauthorized individuals, organizations, or platforms, as neither the Federal Government nor NIMC has sanctioned such activities.
NIMC emphasized that it is illegal to disclose one’s NIN in exchange for money, as this action is prohibited by federal law. Anyone found engaging in this practice will be dealt with accordingly.
NIMC had previously cautioned Nigerians against sharing their NIN or personal data on unverified sites. The commission reiterated that a NIN can only be used by its holder to access government or private sector services, and it must be verified.
The public is advised to contact NIMC through nimccustomercare@nimc.gov.ng, 07002255646, or 01923000010 if they observe any unauthorized collection of NINs.
